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Edinoff AN, Hathaway DB, Martinez Garza D, Rosen J, Suzuki J. The possible clinical utility of the alcohol biomarker phosphatidylethanol for managing suspected alcohol withdrawal in hospitalized patients: A case report. Am J Addict 2024; 33:351-353. [PMID: 38319035 PMCID: PMC11032224 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The decision to initiate pharmacotherapy for alcohol withdrawal is typically based on examining self-reported use of alcohol and symptoms of withdrawal. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a biomarker that could aim in clinical decision-making in withdrawal management. METHODS This report describes three cases highlighting the potential clinical utility of PEth in caring for individuals at risk for alcohol withdrawal. RESULTS Two of the cases received phenobarbital when their PEth showed that the risk of withdrawal was low and one case where PEth could have shown this was needed. The results were only available in a delayed fashion, however, could have been useful in informing clinical care. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION PEth can be a useful tool if available without delay. PEth can be used to quickly rule out alcohol withdrawal and avoid misdiagnoses and prolonged hospital stays. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE This is a clinical case study available looking at PEth and withdrawal in hospitalized patients. It proposes that PEth can be used as a way to quickly rule out alcohol withdrawal to avoid misdiagnoses and the possibility of a prolonged hospital stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber N. Edinoff
- McLean Hospital, Division of Alcohol, Drugs, and Addiction, Belmont, MA
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
| | - David B. Hathaway
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
| | - David Martinez Garza
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
| | - Jordan Rosen
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
| | - Joji Suzuki
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA
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Wang M, Falank C, Simboli V, Ontengco JB, Spurling B, Rappold J, Chung B, Smith KE. "Should We Phenobarb-it-All?" A Phenobarbital-Based Protocol for Non-Intensive Care Unit Trauma Patients at High Risk of or Experiencing Alcohol Withdrawal. Am Surg 2024:31348241244639. [PMID: 38574377 DOI: 10.1177/00031348241244639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use is frequent in trauma patients and alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is associated with significant morbidity. Benzodiazepines are commonly used for AWS, but may cause neurologic and respiratory adverse events (AEs). The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a phenobarbital-based protocol for the treatment of AWS in non-intensive care unit (ICU) trauma patients. METHODS Adult non-ICU trauma patients at high risk of or experiencing AWS PRE and POST implementation of a phenobarbital-based protocol were included. Outcomes were AWS-related complications (AWS-RC), benzodiazepine use, adjunctive medication use, hospital length of stay (HLOS), and medication-related AEs. Subgroup analyses were performed on patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), rib fractures, and at high risk of severe AWS. RESULTS Overall, 110 patients were included (51 PRE, 59 POST). AWS-RC developed in 17 PRE patients compared to 10 POST patients (33% vs 17%; P = .05). PRE patients were more likely to receive benzodiazepines (88% vs 42%, P < .0001) and higher total dose (11 vs 4 mg lorazepam equivalent; P = .001). No difference noted in HLOS (8 vs 8 days, P = .27), adjunctive medication use (49% vs 54%, P = .60), or AEs (57% vs 39%, P = .06). There was no difference in AWS-RC in the TBI subgroup (P = .19), less AEs in the rib fracture POST subgroup (P = .04), and less AWS-RC in the high risk of severe AWS POST subgroup (P = .03). DISCUSSION A phenobarbital-based protocol in trauma patients is effective in preventing AWS-RC and decreasing benzodiazepine use without increasing AEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carolyne Falank
- Department of Surgery, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Vincent Simboli
- Department of Pharmacy, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
| | | | - Brandi Spurling
- Department of Surgery, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Joseph Rappold
- Department of Surgery, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Bruce Chung
- Department of Surgery, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Kathryn E Smith
- Department of Pharmacy, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
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Ahmed A, Acharya S, Shukla S, Ahmed A, Ravikumar V. Beyond the Bottle: Niacin Deficiency and Chronic Alcoholism. Cureus 2023; 15:e49482. [PMID: 38152783 PMCID: PMC10752097 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B3 is called niacin, an essential nutrient for the human body. In diet, it exists in three forms - niacin, nicotinamide, and nicotinamide riboside and can also be produced from an amino acid - tryptophan in the gut. During the digestive process, these dietary forms of vitamin B3 get converted into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), which behaves as a cofactor and substrate in critical cellular reactions and thus plays a pivotal role in energy metabolism. The deficiency of this particular vitamin in the body, which manifests in different ways, is called Pellagra. We discuss one such case of niacin deficiency presenting with multisystem involvement in a chronic alcoholic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariba Ahmed
- Medical Education, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Sourya Acharya
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Samarth Shukla
- Pathology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Ateeba Ahmed
- Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Vijay Ravikumar
- Medical Education, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Marti-Aguado D, Gougol A, Gomez-Medina C, Jamali A, Abo-Zed A, Morales-Arraez D, Jimenez-Sosa A, Burns K, Bawa A, Hernández A, Pujol C, Alvarado-Tapias E, Szafranska J, Chiu WK, Villagrasa A, Ventura-Cots M, Gandicheruvu H, Lluch P, Chen HW, Rachakonda V, Duarte-Rojo A, Bataller R. Prevalence and clinical impact of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in alcohol-associated hepatitis and the potential role of prophylaxis: a multinational, retrospective cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 61:102046. [PMID: 37415844 PMCID: PMC10319982 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence and impact of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) in patients with alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) are unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence, predictors, management, and clinical impact of AWS in patients hospitalized with AH. Methods A multinational, retrospective cohort study enrolling patients hospitalized with AH at 5 medical centres in Spain and in the USA was performed between January 1st, 2016 to January 31st, 2021. Data were retrospectively retrieved from electronic health records. Diagnosis of AWS was based on clinical criteria and use of sedatives to control AWS symptoms. The primary outcome was mortality. Multivariable models controlling for demographic variables and disease severity were performed to determine predictors of AWS (adjusted odds ratio [OR]) and the impact of AWS condition and management on clinical outcomes (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]). Findings In total, 432 patients were included. The median MELD score at admission was 21.9 (18.3-27.3). The overall prevalence of AWS was 32%. Lower platelet levels (OR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.05-2.48) and previous history of AWS (OR = 2.09, 95% CI 1.31-3.33) were associated with a higher rate of incident AWS, whereas the use of prophylaxis decreased the risk (OR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.36-0.93). The use of intravenous benzodiazepines (HR = 2.18, 95% CI 1.02-4.64) and phenobarbital (HR = 2.99, 95% CI 1.07-8.37) for AWS treatment were independently associated with a higher mortality. The development of AWS increased the rate of infections (OR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.44-3.49), the need for mechanical ventilation (OR = 2.49, 95% CI 1.38-4.49), and ICU admission (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.19-3.23). Finally, AWS was associated with higher 28-day (HR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.40-3.82), 90-day (HR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.18-2.69), and 180-day mortality (HR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.06-2.24). Interpretation AWS commonly occurs in patients hospitalized with AH and complicates the hospitalization course. Routine prophylaxis is associated with a lower prevalence of AWS. Prospective studies should determine diagnostic criteria and prophylaxis regimens for AWS management in patients with AH. Funding This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Marti-Aguado
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, Biomedical Research Institute (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - Amir Gougol
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Concepcion Gomez-Medina
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, Biomedical Research Institute (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | - Arsia Jamali
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Abdelrhman Abo-Zed
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dalia Morales-Arraez
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Alejandro Jimenez-Sosa
- Statistical Consultant Research Unit, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Keith Burns
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Aditi Bawa
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anjara Hernández
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Claudia Pujol
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Institut de Recerca Sant Pau, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Edilmar Alvarado-Tapias
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Institut de Recerca Sant Pau, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Justyna Szafranska
- Department of Pathology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wai Kan Chiu
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ares Villagrasa
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Ventura-Cots
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Haritha Gandicheruvu
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Paloma Lluch
- Digestive Disease Department, Clinic University Hospital, Biomedical Research Institute (INCLIVA), Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Andres Duarte-Rojo
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ramon Bataller
- Center for Liver Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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Burk BG, Penherski P, Snider K, Lewellyn L, Mattox L, Polancich S, Fargason R, Waggoner B, Caine E, Hand W, Eagleson RM, Birur B. Use of a Novel Standardized Administration Protocol Reduces Agitation Pro Re Nata (PRN) Medication Requirements: The Birmingham Agitation Management (BAM) Initiative. Ann Pharmacother 2023; 57:397-407. [PMID: 35950625 DOI: 10.1177/10600280221117813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agitation management is a principal challenge on inpatient psychiatric units. Overreliance on common prescribing strategies of pro re nata (PRN) medication administration is problematic, given the tendencies to have overlapping or unclear indications. OBJECTIVE Piloted project to determine whether a standardized protocol for agitation intervention may reduce PRN medication administration. METHODS The Birmingham Agitation Management (BAM) interdisciplinary team uniquely connected the Brøset Violence Checklist (BVC) for assessment of agitation severity to a standardized PRN medication order set. Nurses on the piloted unit were trained on how to score the BVC and administer medications. Patients were assessed by the BVC every 4 hours and, based on their score, would receive no medication, low-dose benzodiazepine, high-dose benzodiazepine, or high-dose benzodiazepine plus antipsychotic. The primary end point compared the number of PRNs administered after novel protocol implementation with a retrospective cohort. Secondary measures included analysis of medication-related effects, seclusion, and physical restraint rates. RESULTS 377 patients were included in the final analyses (184 pre-BAM, 193 BAM intervention group). No significant differences were seen in patient characteristics between groups. The total number of PRNs administered decreased by 42.5%, with both the mean and median number of administrations decreasing significantly (95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.68-5.75]; P < 0.001). A trend was noted between the number of PRNs administered and seclusion rates, but did not reach statistical significance (95% CI = [-7.28 to 60.31]; P = 0.124). CONCLUSIONS In seemingly the first initiative of its kind, we found that a standardized agitation management protocol can help decrease the total number of PRN administrations for agitation without worsening of restraint rates and may possibly reduce the risk of adverse effects. These results require validation in specific, larger populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley G Burk
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Peter Penherski
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kendall Snider
- Department of Regulatory Services, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lesli Lewellyn
- Department of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lisa Mattox
- Department of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Shea Polancich
- Department of Regulatory Services, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Department of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rachel Fargason
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Barry Waggoner
- Department of Clinical Informatics, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Caine
- Department of Hospital Administration, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Wren Hand
- Department of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Reid M Eagleson
- Department of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Badari Birur
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
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6
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Desai V, Lamba W, de Almeida J, Goldstein D. Approach and Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in Operative Head and Neck Cancer Patients. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2023; 168:1258-1260. [PMID: 36841965 DOI: 10.1002/ohn.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Postoperative head and neck cancer patients are at increased risk for alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Literature has shown that in this patient population, alcohol withdrawal is associated with an increase in postoperative medical and surgical complications, length of hospitalization, and hospital-related costs. Harm reduction and addiction medicine philosophies can reduce morbidity and mortality, but have not been fully validated in perioperative surgical management for head and neck cancer. This commentary synthesizes key principles of addiction medicine and current strategies that Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery surgeons can consider in their perioperative assessment and management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veeral Desai
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Wiplove Lamba
- Department of Psychiatry, Sinai Health Systems, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John de Almeida
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Goldstein
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Chand PK, Panda U, Mahadevan J, Murthy P. Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in Patients with Alcoholic Liver Disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2022; 12:1527-1534. [PMID: 36340306 PMCID: PMC9630022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a common condition that is seen in treatment-seeking patients with Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD). AWS, which typically starts within 4-6 h of the last alcohol use, can range from mild symptoms such as insomnia, tremors, and autonomic hyperactivity to more severe symptoms such as seizures and delirium tremens. Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment Scale-Alcohol Revised (CIWA-Ar) is the most commonly used scale to assess AWS in clinical practice. The presence of moderate withdrawal as indicated by a score of more than 8 is an indication for pharmacotherapy. Lorazepam and oxazepam are preferred agents for the management of AWS in the setting of ALD. In severe ALD, benzodiazepines should be used cautiously with monitoring due to the risk of excessive sedation or precipitating hepatic encephalopathy.
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Key Words
- ALD, alcoholic liver disease
- AMPA, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid
- AUD, alcohol use disorder
- AUDIT – C, Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test – Consumption
- AUDIT, Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test
- AWS, alcohol withdrawal syndrome
- CIWA – Ar, Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol Revised
- CNS, central nervous system
- EtG, ethyl glucuronide
- EtS, ethyl sulphate
- GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid
- GGT, gamma glutamyl transferase
- HE, hepatic encephalopathy
- MCV, mean corpuscular volume
- NMDA, N-methyl-d-aspartate
- alcohol
- alcoholic liver disease
- assessment
- treatment
- withdrawal
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhat Kumar Chand
- Centre for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Udit Panda
- Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneshwar, India
| | - Jayant Mahadevan
- Centre for Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Pratima Murthy
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
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8
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Benzodiazepine Treatment and Hospital Course of Medical Inpatients With Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in the Veterans Health Administration. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes 2022; 6:126-136. [PMID: 35224452 PMCID: PMC8855212 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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9
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Underwood K, Stupart D, Morgan FH, Scott B, Moxham-Smith R, Moore EM, Friedman D. Can the alcohol withdrawal scale be applied to post-operative patients? ANZ J Surg 2021; 92:1377-1381. [PMID: 34723429 DOI: 10.1111/ans.17334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Assessment scales are commonly used to diagnose and treat alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) in acute hospitals, although they have only been validated for use in detoxification facilities. There is a significant overlap between the symptoms and signs of AWS and other clinical presentations, including systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and the physiological response to surgery. This may lead to both over-diagnosis and inappropriate treatment of AWS. This study sought to determine the false-positive rate for the commonly used Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar) among post-operative patients. METHODS This was a prospective study of patients undergoing major abdominal surgery at University Hospital Geelong. Patients were recruited who were NOT at risk of alcohol dependency (using the World Health Organisation Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test). Patients were assessed for AWS using the CIWA-Ar day one post-operatively with a false positive measured as a CIWA-Ar > 7. RESULTS A total of 67 patients were included in the study. There were 31 (46%) men and 36 women. Their median age was 52 years (range 27-85). Thirty-six (52%) of patients underwent elective procedures, and 32 were emergencies. Twelve of the 67 patients (18%) had CIWA-Ar scores >seven. CONCLUSION In the early post-operative period, the CIWA-Ar tool over-diagnoses AWS in 18% of patients. These false-positives could lead to delayed treatment of serious underlying conditions. We call for caution in the use of alcohol withdrawal scales in the acute hospital setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk Underwood
- Department of Surgery, Barwon Health, Surgery, University Hospital Geelong, Bellarine Street, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Douglas Stupart
- Department of Surgery, Barwon Health, Surgery, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Benjamin Scott
- Department of Surgery, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Eileen Mary Moore
- Deakin University School of Medicine, Surgery, Barwon Health, Surgery, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Friedman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Infectious Diseases, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Steel TL, Afshar M, Edwards S, Jolley SE, Timko C, Clark BJ, Douglas IS, Dzierba AL, Gershengorn HB, Gilpin NW, Godwin DW, Hough CL, Maldonado JR, Mehta AB, Nelson LS, Patel MB, Rastegar DA, Stollings JL, Tabakoff B, Tate JA, Wong A, Burnham EL. Research Needs for Inpatient Management of Severe Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: An Official American Thoracic Society Research Statement. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2021; 204:e61-e87. [PMID: 34609257 PMCID: PMC8528516 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202108-1845st] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome (SAWS) is highly morbid, costly, and common among hospitalized patients, yet minimal evidence exists to guide inpatient management. Research needs in this field are broad, spanning the translational science spectrum. Goals: This research statement aims to describe what is known about SAWS, identify knowledge gaps, and offer recommendations for research in each domain of the Institute of Medicine T0-T4 continuum to advance the care of hospitalized patients who experience SAWS. Methods: Clinicians and researchers with unique and complementary expertise in basic, clinical, and implementation research related to unhealthy alcohol consumption and alcohol withdrawal were invited to participate in a workshop at the American Thoracic Society 2019 International Conference. The committee was subdivided into four groups on the basis of interest and expertise: T0-T1 (basic science research with translation to humans), T2 (research translating to patients), T3 (research translating to clinical practice), and T4 (research translating to communities). A medical librarian conducted a pragmatic literature search to facilitate this work, and committee members reviewed and supplemented the resulting evidence, identifying key knowledge gaps. Results: The committee identified several investigative opportunities to advance the care of patients with SAWS in each domain of the translational science spectrum. Major themes included 1) the need to investigate non-γ-aminobutyric acid pathways for alcohol withdrawal syndrome treatment; 2) harnessing retrospective and electronic health record data to identify risk factors and create objective severity scoring systems, particularly for acutely ill patients with SAWS; 3) the need for more robust comparative-effectiveness data to identify optimal SAWS treatment strategies; and 4) recommendations to accelerate implementation of effective treatments into practice. Conclusions: The dearth of evidence supporting management decisions for hospitalized patients with SAWS, many of whom require critical care, represents both a call to action and an opportunity for the American Thoracic Society and larger scientific communities to improve care for a vulnerable patient population. This report highlights basic, clinical, and implementation research that diverse experts agree will have the greatest impact on improving care for hospitalized patients with SAWS.
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Steel TL, Giovanni SP, Katsandres SC, Cohen SM, Stephenson KB, Murray B, Sobeck H, Hough CL, Bradley KA, Williams EC. Should the CIWA-Ar be the standard monitoring strategy for alcohol withdrawal syndrome in the intensive care unit? Addict Sci Clin Pract 2021; 16:21. [PMID: 33762020 PMCID: PMC7988382 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-021-00226-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar) is commonly used in hospitals to titrate medications for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), but may be difficult to apply to intensive care unit (ICU) patients who are too sick or otherwise unable to communicate. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the frequency of CIWA-Ar monitoring among ICU patients with AWS and variation in CIWA-Ar monitoring across patient demographic and clinical characteristics. METHODS The study included all adults admitted to an ICU in 2017 after treatment for AWS in the Emergency Department of an academic hospital that standardly uses the CIWA-Ar to assess AWS severity and response to treatment. Demographic and clinical data, including Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) assessments (an alternative measure of agitation/sedation), were obtained via chart review. Associations between patient characteristics and CIWA-Ar monitoring were tested using logistic regression. RESULTS After treatment for AWS, only 56% (n = 54/97) of ICU patients were evaluated using the CIWA-Ar; 94% of patients had a documented RASS assessment (n = 91/97). Patients were significantly less likely to receive CIWA-Ar monitoring if they were intubated or identified as Black. CONCLUSIONS CIWA-Ar monitoring was used inconsistently in ICU patients with AWS and completed less often in those who were intubated or identified as Black. These hypothesis-generating findings raise questions about the utility of the CIWA-Ar in ICU settings. Future studies should assess alternative measures for titrating AWS medications in the ICU that do not require verbal responses from patients and further explore the association of race with AWS monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa L. Steel
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation (COIN), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle Division, 1660 South Columbian Way S-152, SeattleSeattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Shewit P. Giovanni
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, & Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Sarah C. Katsandres
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, & Sleep Medicine, Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Shawn M. Cohen
- Department of Medicine, Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Kevin B. Stephenson
- University of Washington Internal Medicine Residency Program, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Ben Murray
- University of Washington Internal Medicine Residency Program, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Hillary Sobeck
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Catherine L. Hough
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, & Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | | | - Emily C. Williams
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation (COIN), VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle Division, 1660 South Columbian Way S-152, SeattleSeattle, WA 98108 USA
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Pribék IK, Kovács I, Kádár BK, Kovács CS, Richman MJ, Janka Z, Andó B, Lázár BA. Evaluation of the course and treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome with the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol - Revised: A systematic review-based meta-analysis. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 220:108536. [PMID: 33503582 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol - Revised (CIWA-Ar) is a gold standard tool for the clinical evaluation of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), a systematic analysis using the total scores of the CIWA-Ar as a means of an objective follow-up of the course and treatment of AWS is missing. The aims of the present study were to systematically evaluate scientific data using the CIWA-Ar, to reveal whether the aggregated CIWA-Ar total scores follow the course of AWS and to compare benzodiazepine (BZD) and non-benzodiazepine (nBZD) therapies in AWS. METHODS 1054 findings were identified with the keyword "ciwa" from four databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Cochrane Registry). Articles using CIWA-Ar in patients treated with AWS were incorporated and two measurement intervals (cumulative mean data of day 1-3 and day 4-9) of the CIWA-Ar total scores were compared. Subgroup analysis based on pharmacotherapy regimen was conducted to compare the effectiveness of BZD and nBZD treatments. RESULTS The random effects analysis of 423 patients showed decreased CIWA-Ar scores between the two measurement intervals (BZD: d = -1.361; CI: -1.829 < δ < -0.893; nBZD: d = -0.858; CI: -1.073 < δ < -0.643). Sampling variances were calculated for the BZD (v1 = 0.215) and the nBZD (v2 = 0.106) groups, which indicated no significant group difference (z = -1.532). CONCLUSIONS Our findings support that the CIWA-Ar follows the course of AWS. Furthermore, nBZD therapy has a similar effectiveness compared to BZD treatment based on the CIWA-Ar total scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildikó Katalin Pribék
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary.
| | - Ildikó Kovács
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary
| | - Bettina Kata Kádár
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary
| | - Csenge Sára Kovács
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary
| | - Mara J Richman
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Balassa Street 8, H-1085, Budapest, Hungary; Endeavor Psychology, 10 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116, USA
| | - Zoltán Janka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary
| | - Bálint Andó
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary
| | - Bence András Lázár
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Szeged, 8-10 Korányi fasor, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary.
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Ng C, Fleury M, Hakmi H, Bronson B, Vosswinkel JA, Huang EC, Shapiro M, Jawa RS. The impact of alcohol use and withdrawal on trauma outcomes: A case control study. Am J Surg 2020; 222:438-445. [PMID: 33454025 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2020.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many patients admitted to hospitals with acute trauma have positive serum blood alcohol levels. Published associations between alcohol use, injury patterns, and outcomes are inconsistent. We sought to further delineate the impact of alcohol use and alcohol withdrawal on hospital outcomes amongst acute trauma patients. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of adult trauma patients hospitalized at a suburban level 1 trauma center between January 2015 and September 2019 with a blood alcohol level measurement and/or classification as alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Patients were separated into three groups: BAL ≤10 mg/dL, BAL >10 mg/dL, and alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). RESULTS Overall, 3896 patients met study criteria with 75.6% BAL ≤10, 23.2% BAL >10, and 1.2% AWS. The median age was significantly different (BAL ≤ 10: 59 years, BAL > 10: 44 years, AWS: 53.5 years). Alcohol withdrawal was experienced by patients with BAL ≤10 and BAL >10. While injury severity and mortality were similar across all 3 groups, AWS patients experienced significantly longer hospital and ICU lengths of stay, unplanned ICU admission, need for mechanical ventilation, and higher rates of complications. Patients with AWS had high rates of acute neuropsychiatric symptoms, complicating their management. CONCLUSIONS Except for mortality, AWS patients experienced worse outcomes. The complex nature of alcohol withdrawal cases, including the possibility of developing AWS despite a negative BAL on admission, emphasizes the need for early assessment for alcohol withdrawal risk factors and input from specialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Ng
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Marie Fleury
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Hazim Hakmi
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Brian Bronson
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - James A Vosswinkel
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Emily C Huang
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Marc Shapiro
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Randeep S Jawa
- Division of Trauma, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
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Dzikowicz DJ. Low voltage on the 12-lead ECG: A warning sign. Nurse Pract 2020; 45:33-40. [PMID: 32826538 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000694724.36132.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A 12-lead ECG showing low voltage should be a red flag to providers; it can be caused by several serious conditions. This clinical case describes how an NP correctly treated a patient with low voltage on an ECG by discerning and managing the underlying causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon J Dzikowicz
- Dillon J. Dzikowicz is a doctoral candidate at the University of Rochester, School of Nursing, Rochester, N.Y
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15
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Brothers TD, Bach P. Challenges in Prediction, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal in Medically Ill Hospitalized Patients: A Teachable Moment. JAMA Intern Med 2020; 180:900-901. [PMID: 32338709 PMCID: PMC8824681 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2020.1091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paxton Bach
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
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Wolf C, Curry A, Nacht J, Simpson SA. Management of Alcohol Withdrawal in the Emergency Department: Current Perspectives. Open Access Emerg Med 2020; 12:53-65. [PMID: 32256131 PMCID: PMC7093658 DOI: 10.2147/oaem.s235288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a common, heterogenous, and life-threatening complication of alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD is a leading cause of worldwide mortality, and many patients with AUD will develop AWS during their ED course. This review summarizes the epidemiology, pathology, and management of AWS and AUD in the emergency setting. The time course of AWS and its impact on ED treatment is emphasized. Once AWS is diagnosed, symptom-triggered benzodiazepine administration remains the most commonly provided treatment but may not be appropriate for patients with significant medical or psychiatric comorbidity or pending discharge. In these cases, ED clinicians may consider short courses of barbiturates or alternative regimens based on novel anticonvulsants. Specific treatment protocols are enumerated for clinical practice. Finally, emergency providers must not only manage acute patients' AWS but also lay the foundation for successful treatment of AUD. An approach to the disposition of the patient with AUD is presented. The authors examine shortcomings in the extant literature and suggest opportunities for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Wolf
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ashley Curry
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jacob Nacht
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Scott A Simpson
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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